Number Operations · JHS2 Mathematics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: B8.1.2.3.1 - Identify and explain the laws of indices

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

State all four laws of indices using correct mathematical notation and vocabulary.
Explain in their own words what each law means and when it applies.
Verify each law by substituting simple numerical values for the base and exponents.
Identify which law applies to a given expression involving powers.
Work collaboratively to explain the laws to peers using examples.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Number (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Number Operations (1.2)
Content standard: B8.1.2.3 - Demonstrate understanding and the use of the laws of indices in solving problems (including real life problems) involving powers of natural numbers
Indicator: B8.1.2.3.1 - Identify and explain the laws of indices
Suggested placement: Term 1, Week 9 (Week 9 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: Mathematics, Common Core Programme (JHS1-JHS3), 2023, p. 100
Transcribed from the official NaCCA publication. Check this page against the source.

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

E.g.1 State the Laws of Indices. For real numbers m, n and valid bases a, b, the following basic laws hold
i. Law1: a m × a n = a (m+n)
ii. Law 2: a m = a (m-n) a n
For applying the above Law, if we choose both m = 1 and n = 1, then we get: a 1 = a (1-1) = a 0 = 1
a 1
iii. Law 3: (a m ) n = a m×n = a mn
iv. Law 4: (ab) n = a n b n